Doris June Burnham
Doris June Burnham, age 86, of Charlotte, MI, peacefully left this world on December 23, 2023. Born February 15, 1937, in Anna, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Edgar and Pauline Blaney. Doris is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Lyle Burnham; daughter, Jolene Six; grandson, Charles Clark Jr; two sisters, Mary Ellen Rather and Judy Forehand.
Doris spent her early years in Anna and Jonesboro, IL where she played piano and sang in her church choir. She later moved to Lansing, MI where she met and married her first husband, Lyle Burnham and it was there they settled and raised their family including four children. She also worked many years as a secretary for various organizations. She spent most of her retirement years in Lake City, MI until 2022, when she moved back to the area with her second husband, Daryl O’Dell to be closer to her children and grandchildren.
She was a dynamic and beautiful woman who was a creative force showcasing her many artistic talents including, but not limited to; painting, sewing, crocheting, and music. She is fondly remembered spending most of her free time at her kitchen and/or craft tables creating beautiful cloths, quilts, paintings, and other works of art. If we were lucky, she might be heard singing and playing her keyboard or practicing the guitar.
Doris embarked on a life’s journey that embraced a drive for independence, personal development, and a commitment to family. Her memory will forever linger in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her, a woman whose spirit and life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and generosity. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the colors and melodies she so beautifully composed during her time with us.
She is survived by her husband, Daryl O’Dell; children, David and Kevin (Tanya) Burnham, Beverly (Charles) Clark; as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings: Ralph (Diane) and Ronald Blaney, Carol Hindman, Anita (Link) Beatty, Janet (Michael) Peeler; and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held for Doris in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to McLaren Hospice.
Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Leslie Funeral Home, 109 N. Church St./P.O. Box 503, Leslie Michigan 49251. 517-878-6600.